One week after signing Barry transfer center Alvaro Simoza, the Conquistadors remained hot on the recruiting trail by adding 7 talented players. “This recruiting class is a combination of size, speed and versatility,” said Recruiting Coordinator, James “JJ” Thatcher. The Men’s basketball program made it to the USCAA National Tournament in only its second year of competition, but failed to win the championship. “As a coaching staff, we have identified some of our weaknesses and needs and we feel this class has addressed those needs and made us a better team and one capable of winning it all next year,” said Head Men’s Basketball Coach, Scott Schmidt.
2015 Recruiting Class
LaQuon Kirce
LaQuon is a 5’10” point guard from Jacksonville, Florida. He transferred from State College of Florida a NJCAA D1 junior college in Bradenton, Florida. LaQuon’s former coach, Elliot Washington, speaks highly of his former player. He says that LaQuon has a high IQ and knows how to run a team. “He is one of the top point guards in the state of Florida,” said State College of Florida Head Coach, Elliot Washington. LaQuon’s combination of speed and the ability to shoot the long range shot makes him a perfect fit for the Conquistadors style of play. “He sees the floor so well,” said Florida National Head Men’s Basketball Coach, Scott Schmidt. LaQuon will be a perfect fit to the FNU basketball family.
Erich Allen
Erich is a 6’7” forward from Jacksonville FL. He is transferring from one of the best NAIA D1 programs in the country, Dalton State College. Erich’s size and ability to step away from the basket to hit open shots make him a nightmare for traditional post players to guard. “Adding a player with as much versatility as Erich is a huge plus for us,” said Head Men’s Basketball Coach, Scott Schmidt. Erich is also a good student of the game. He brings a very high basketball IQ to the Conquistadors team.
Jamaal Walker
Jamal Walker is a 6’0” combo guard from the Bahamas. He is transferring to Florida National University from Otero College in Colorado. He also played a year of basketball at D1 Western Illinois. Jamal is the prototypical Florida National guard, athletic and has the ability to shoot the ball. Jamal adds a very high level basketball IQ. As a point guard, Jamal has the ability to get his teammates involved in the game. His on court leadership will be a major bonus for the Conquistadors.
Mark is a 6’6” forward from Budapest Hungary. He is transferring to Florida National University from Indian River State College. Mark is a blue collar role player who loves to defend and rebound. He is an athletic forward who loves to run the floor. Mark is an excellent student. He has a 4.0 GPA. “Having a guy like Mark on your team who is the perfect example of a student athlete, is awesome for our program,” said Head Men’s Basketball Coach, Scott Schmidt.
Adriel Jimenez
Adriel is a 6’3” shooting guard from Miami, FL. Adriel is transferring to Florida National University from Williston State College in North Dakota. Adriel brings a winning pedigree to the Conquistadors. He won a state title at Miami High School. Adriel has unlimited range. He is a high percentage shooter who knows how to set up defenders. Adriel is always in the gym working to get better. His work ethic is infectious. Adriel will be looked upon to come in games and add instance offense. “It’s always good to add local players to your team, but Adriel is a steal for us because of his ability to score the basketball,” said Head Men’s Basketball Coach, Scott Schmidt.
JoaQuan Whitley is a 6’6” small forward from Jacksonville, FL. He is transferring to Florida National University from Southwest Christian College in Texas. JoaQuan has off the chart athletic ability which allows him to be able to defend guards as well as post players. JoaQuan has a high motor and loves to run the floor. Whitley’s 6’9” wing span is a nightmare for opposing teams. He can shoot over smaller defenders and post up slower defenders in the paint. JoaQuan will be looked upon to bring energy and instant offense when he is in the game.
